The Department of Agriculture in the Caraga Region (DA-13) distributed PHP200.6 million in assistance to 265 farmers’ cooperatives and associations from January to May, according to the agency’s mid-year achievement report released Tuesday.

The comprehensive assistance package included 50,000 pieces of planting materials, featuring high-value crops; 3,507 kilograms of organic fertilizers and various other farm inputs; and 14,990 pieces of assorted vegetable planting materials.

Additionally, DA-13 provided 2,146 pieces of farm supplies and tools, five threshers, and 12 abaca stripping machines to the beneficiary groups.

For groups that opted to venture into additional livelihood projects, the DA-13 also supplied 14,801 heads of poultry products.

During Monday’s mid-year assessment, Regional Director Arlan Mangelen directed DA-13 personnel to maintain their focus on duties, as the agency pledges to sustain its programs for farmers.

“The DA plays an important role in food production. We need to give quality services to help our farmers increase their farm production,” Mangelen said. (PNA)